No More Yeast and Minimal Flour! Healthy and Tasty Pies in the Oven

No More Yeast and Minimal Flour! Healthy and Tasty Pies in the Oven

Ingredients

• 250 g (8.8 oz) cottage cheese
• 1 egg
• 0.5 tsp salt
• 1 tsp sugar
• 2 tbsp sour cream
• 200 g (7 oz) flour
• 0.5 tsp baking soda
• A little vinegar (to extinguish the soda)

Nutritional Information

This recipe makes about 8-10 pies, depending on the size.

• Calories per pie: 120-150 kcal
• Protein: 5 g
• Fat: 3 g
• Carbohydrates: 20 g

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preparing the Dough

Start by gathering all your ingredients. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity, with ingredients that are likely already in your refrigerator or pantry. Here’s how to put it all together:

1. Mix the Base Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine 250 g (8.8 oz) of cottage cheese, 1 egg, 0.5 tsp salt, 1 tsp sugar, and 2 tbsp sour cream. Stir the mixture thoroughly. Unlike many other doughs, there’s no need to worry about breaking up any lumps in the cottage cheese—this adds to the texture of the final product.
2. Quench the Soda: Take 0.5 tsp of baking soda and extinguish it with a small amount of vinegar. This step is crucial as it activates the soda, which will help the dough rise and create a soft, airy texture. Pour the fizzing soda into the cottage cheese mixture and stir.
3. Add the Flour: Gradually sift in 200 g (7 oz) of flour into the bowl, mixing as you go. The dough should be soft and a bit sticky but still manageable. Avoid adding too much flour; the key is to keep the dough light and tender. Once mixed, place the dough in a plastic bag and let it rest in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This chilling period helps the dough firm up, making it easier to handle later.

2. Preparing the Filling

While the dough is resting in the refrigerator, it’s the perfect time to prepare your filling. This recipe is incredibly versatile, allowing for both sweet and savory options:

• For a Sweet Filling: You could use apple slices with cinnamon and sugar, or even a mixture of berries and a bit of honey.
• For a Savory Filling: Consider sautéed mushrooms with onions, mashed  potatoes with cheese, or spinach and feta.

Feel free to get creative with your fillings based on your preferences and what you have on hand.

3. Forming the Pies

Once the dough has chilled:

1. Divide the Dough: Remove the dough from the refrigerator and place it on a floured surface. Divide it into several equal pieces. Depending on the size you prefer, this recipe should make about 8-10 pies.
2. Shape the Dough: Using your hands, flatten each piece of dough into a small circle. There’s no need for a rolling pin; the dough should be soft and pliable enough to shape with your fingers.
3. Add the Filling: Place a spoonful of your chosen filling in the center of each dough circle. Be careful not to overfill, as this could cause the pies to burst open during baking.
4. Seal the Edges: Carefully fold the dough over the filling, pinching the edges together to seal. You can crimp the edges with a fork for a decorative touch and to ensure the filling stays inside during baking.

4. Baking the Pies

Now that your pies are ready:

1. Prepare the Baking Sheet: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent the pies from sticking and to make cleanup easier.
2. Place the Pies: Arrange the pies on the baking sheet, leaving a little space between each one to allow for even cooking.
3. Bake: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Place the baking sheet in the oven and bake the pies for 15-20 minutes or until they are golden brown. The exact baking time can vary, so keep an eye on them to ensure they don’t overcook.
4. Cool and Serve: Once baked, remove the pies from the oven and allow them to cool slightly before serving. These pies are delicious when served warm, but they also store well and can be enjoyed cold or reheated later.

Conclusion

These healthy, yeast-free pies are an excellent option for anyone looking to enjoy homemade baked goods without the heaviness of traditional pastries. The use of cottage cheese and minimal flour ensures a light and tender dough, while the flexibility of the filling makes this recipe a favorite for all tastes. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack, a savory appetizer, or a sweet dessert, these pies deliver on flavor and texture without the need for complex ingredients. Enjoy the delightful balance of soft dough and flavorful fillings—bake, taste, and share this wholesome recipe with your loved ones!